Classic American West Coast Boxing

[El Gato]

Roger,

It was a great afternoon at your home Sunday. It seemed like we talked for hours and hours with no break. We had so many stories to share. Rog has so many pictures of Michoan that brought back so many memories of when I visited there in the 60's and when I fought Jose Garcia in Jiquilpan on Feb. 4, of that year.
Besides looking at so many old pictures of Mexico which we loved looking at, Roger has dozens and dozens of portraits of boxers and other people that he has painted in his unique style. I especially like the one of Pancho Villa. Such a natural talent.

Maria cooked such a delicious meal for us--Carne Asada, mouth watering breaded shrimp, rice. beans and vegetables, flour and corn tortillas. It makes me hungry just writing about it. After dinner we had coffee and real Mescal, which is 150% tequilla. Barbara nearly choked on it. I think that's when Roger took the picture of her.

Thank you so much, Roger and Maria for inviting us into you home. We are looking forward to our next get-to-gether.

El Gato

[bennie]

The fight that ruined Joe Medrano. As you can see this was one prolonged beating with 5 knockdowns. I saw this fight and was amazed he kept getting up. It should have been stopped. This was the type of prolonged beating one does not recover from. Not unlike Carmona-Ramos, Gonzalez-Carmona or Nelson-Fenech II. These guys just were not the same. I saw his next fight against Jorge Valenzuela and said 'this is not the same Joe Medrano'. The end of a good prospect.

Breaking a fighter's spirit . . .

I remember this fight, Frank. I give Joe Medrano a lot of credit, he showed great heart in rising from each knockdown and continuing to fight knowing he had no chance of winning. As you pointed out, one good ass-whipping can ruin a fighter. This is one reason that we have guys that are considered "all time" greats, guys who can get such a whipping and come back and win big against a good fighter on another day.

What boxing fans don't understand is that to destroy a boxer, it isn't about breaking his body, but breaking his spirit. For example, you might remember Marco Antonio Barrera's KO loss to Junior Jones? Barrera fought him again and lost too, but not like the first time. Jones just had his number, but he didn't break Barrera's spirit. He would go on to score the biggest victories of his long career. Then you look at John "The Beast" Mugabi. 28-0 all KO's when he fought Marvin Hagler. The Beast gave his best but Hagler ruined him in later rounds. After this fight, Mugabi wasn't worth a nickle. Marvin broke his spirit.

-Rick Farris

According to Mickey Duff, Mugabi blew the $320,000 (clear) he received for the Hagler fight in just six weeks. John is living in London, these days, overweight and bespectacled but with a happy disposition. "The Beast" only fought Hagler because Tommy Hearns wanted no part of him. That is fact.

[Rick Farris]

The fight that ruined Joe Medrano. As you can see this was one prolonged beating with 5 knockdowns. I saw this fight and was amazed he kept getting up. It should have been stopped. This was the type of prolonged beating one does not recover from. Not unlike Carmona-Ramos, Gonzalez-Carmona or Nelson-Fenech II. These guys just were not the same. I saw his next fight against Jorge Valenzuela and said 'this is not the same Joe Medrano'. The end of a good prospect.

Breaking a fighter's spirit . . .

I remember this fight, Frank. I give Joe Medrano a lot of credit, he showed great heart in rising from each knockdown and continuing to fight knowing he had no chance of winning. As you pointed out, one good ass-whipping can ruin a fighter. This is one reason that we have guys that are considered "all time" greats, guys who can get such a whipping and come back and win big against a good fighter on another day.

What boxing fans don't understand is that to destroy a boxer, it isn't about breaking his body, but breaking his spirit. For example, you might remember Marco Antonio Barrera's KO loss to Junior Jones? Barrera fought him again and lost too, but not like the first time. Jones just had his number, but he didn't break Barrera's spirit. He would go on to score the biggest victories of his long career. Then you look at John "The Beast" Mugabi. 28-0 all KO's when he fought Marvin Hagler. The Beast gave his best but Hagler ruined him in later rounds. After this fight, Mugabi wasn't worth a nickle. Marvin broke his spirit.

-Rick Farris

According to Mickey Duff, Mugabi blew the $320,000 (clear) he received for the Hagler fight in just six weeks. John is living in London, these days, overweight and bespectacled but with a happy disposition. "The Beast" only fought Hagler because Tommy Hearns wanted no part of him. That is fact.

Bennie . . . I remember that fight card very well. One of our L.A. boys, Richie Sandoval, almost lost his life that night defending his bantam title against Gaby Canizalez. There was an air of tragedy about the whole evening. I agree, Tommy Hearns had good reason to be wary of Mugabi's power, but was able to blast out James Shuler in the first. Shuler would buy a motorcycle with his purse, and then kill himself on it within a couple days. Of course, Hagler had his hands full with the beast until taming him for good. I still have that fight card on a VHS cartridge. I should get it transferred, it was a good one.

I remember it rained that night in Las Vegas, and before the Sandoval-Canizalez match, Richie's trainer, Tony Cerda, had to carry him down the aisle to the ring to avoid getting his boxing shoes wet. The bout was held outdoors in the Cesars Palace parking lot. I watched it from the comfort of my living room.


-Rick Farris

[Rick Farris]

Well, I'm on the way to the hospital to have the damage of 12 years of boxing removed from my nose. It will still look flattened, but I should be able to breath nicely for the first time in more than thirty years.

-Rick

[Expug]

Best of luck Rick.
You'll be fine .Get back to us ASAP.
Let us know it went well.
Brian

[Expug]

Rick, look at this


Just a Number: 51 Year Old Heavyweight Hassan Chitsaz Targets Evander Holyfield and the Heavyweight Title
Interview by Dan Hernandez-February 23, 2009

“I decided that age was just a number, all it takes is hard work and you can get what you want in life.”--Hassan Chitsaz

As the reigning elder statesman of active heavyweight fighters, Hassan E. Chitsaz is on a mission to accomplish his boxing dream and becoming the first man of Iranian decent to become a professional heavyweight champion of the world. Knowing the odds against his success, including obtaining the necessary license to fight in the United States and the inability to obtain insurance policies should his plans go awry, “The Iranian Assassin” is moving on undeterred by these drawbacks and host of detractors.

Hassan, 51, fought under the management of his friend, former boxing great, Ken Norton, in 1994, when he was a young man of only 37 years of age, retiring, and making his comeback in 2008. He is self-managed and holds an overall ring record of 10-0, 10 KO’s, seven of those victories, sanctioned bouts held in Mexico, coming in 2008. All ten bouts ended in resounding knockouts for the undefeated Chitsaz and encompassed only 12 rounds of fighting. He told me that he suffered a broken rib in his last bout, regrouped, and knocked the much younger man flat within the very first stanza. He presently holds the WBA Fedecaribe Heavyweight Title and the NABA Heavyweight Championship, and has a team of advisors attempting to line up a bout with boxing legend and former multi-belt heavyweight title-holder, Evander Holyfield or anyone with solid credentials. The Assassin is ready!

Standing at 5’11 and weighing 228 pounds, Hassan claims to be in the best shape and condition of his life. Having thirty years of experience in security, protecting politicians, and entertainers, such as Hall of Fame singer, Stevie Wonder, he has helped support his family in Iran and says his future is bright. He is doing this for him and anyone that thinks age means they can no longer accomplish demanding goals. If energy and confidence have a valid place in our reasoning, Hassan has a sluggers chance to make a difference. It was thoroughly enjoyable to sit down with this young man and discuss his present and future plans.

DH: When did you get into boxing originally?

In Iran, I was an amateur fighter.

DH: How old were you at that time?

15 years old.

DH: Did you ever turn pro when you were younger?

No, Iran does not have professional boxing. I fought there for three years and came to America when I was 19 years old.

DH: Did you continue boxing when you came to America?

I did Martial Arts, then in 1990, I turned pro in California…I was approved with the Athletic Commission and turned pro. I fought for a few years, went to a boxing camp in Texas. At that time, I was managed by Ken Norton, the former Heavyweight Champ. I had three fights, three knockouts and after that, I came back to California to renew my license. Some personal stuff happened and I didn’t go back to boxing. I stayed here and went back to school, graduated from Irvine Valley College in Irvine, California. After that, I was doing my bodyguard work. I did that for 30 years.

DH: Can you name some of your clients?

Some of them I can, some I cannot. There were many singers like Stevie Wonder and diplomats, dignitaries, and politicians. I worked special functions, like award shows and such.

DH: You did that for thirty years?

I am still doing that. Then I joined the World Hall of Fame Boxing two years ago and then I was an honorary member, then they selected me to the Board of Directors, then Sergeant of Arms, then last year they nominated me as the Ambassador to the World Hall of Fame Boxing.

DH: I am confused, from security work you simply decided to join the HOF? Why did you make that transition?

I loved to be in the boxing business…I wanted to go back to fighting again.

DH: Have you always loved boxing?

Yes, I love boxing. I have always supported a lot of fighters. That was my bliss, always fighting.

DH: Are you still in contact with Ken Norton?

Yes, he is my best good friend.

DH: I know he had a stroke, how is he doing now?

He’s fine, he had another stroke recently, but he came back right now.

DH: I’m glad to hear he is recovering. When did you start fighting professionally again?

Just last year. I decided that age was just a number, all it takes is hard work and you can get what you want in life. You know you go up and down in life…I had to support my family back home in Iran, so I didn’t have chances. Since I joined the HOF, I just decided to go back to boxing. I’ve always been training, always and last year I lost 50 pounds, had 10 fights, 10 quick knockouts. I got two championships, on October 5th, 2008, I had WBA Championship and on December 20, 2008, I fought again and won the NABA Title. So I motivate myself and I’m going to keep going for more and more and more coming.

DH: So, are you licensed to box in the US now?

No, but I’m going to get it. I am licensed in Mexico, but I’m going to fight in the United States…I’m going to be a champion.

DH: What is your fighting weight?

Right now, I am at 228. I was 276 last year and I lost 50 pounds. I never felt stronger than I do right now. I’ve never been stronger ever.

DH: And your goal is to become a world champion?

I’m going to get it. You believe it, you achieve it. And I want to help everybody, all these kids…I want to be a role model for all of them. People all over the world, I mean age is a number, if you want it, you can do it. I want to open a charity and help everyone. If anyone has the opportunity, but they don’t have the money, I’m fighting for those people. I’m a people’s fighter.

DH: Are the paychecks getting better as you acquire these championships?

Yes. Everybody I fight, nobody is my age…most people I fight are 26 or 27 and all of them were first round knockouts.

DH: Have you fought any rated fighters?

Mario Maciel, 11-12-0, was a good fighter. He worked me out.

DH: How old are you right now?

I am 51 and he was 27.

DH: You must be in great condition, some guys at 51 have trouble crossing the street.

You have to be always in shape, you have to believe in yourself, you have to train. You have to always be in training, you have to always feel like you’re going to fight the next day. You have to be in that kind of shape.

DH: You mentioned working on a fight with Evander Holyfield, when is that going to be?

That’s my goal, to fight Evander. They are working on it.

DH: Who is your manager?

I have a few people but I don’t want to call their names because I’m hoping to sign with them. They are working on some big fights for me. I am presently self-managed. Maybe I can get Ken Norton to come back to help me.

DH: I understand that you have aspirations of becoming an actor, is that correct?

I want to be in the movie business also.

DH: What would you like to do in the movies?

I would like to do movies that make common sense…I could be a justice man. Bringing justice to the people, that’s what I’d like to do.

DH: How do you feel about the new President of the United States?

Mr. Obama, I love Mr. Obama. In fact, I want to change my name to Obama, because I like him very much. He’s outgoing, however he feels he says, and he’s a straight shooter, that’s what I like. That’s how I am, If I like, I like. If I don’t like, I don’t like.

That has always been my principle, you have to be an outgoing person, and you have to be in charge. You must always be in charge, I’m the leader, and I’m a commander. I have always felt that way, I’m a self-made man.

When you are a self-made person, you believe in yourself and someone like me, we never had a chance and now it’s a second chance. If I make a mistake, I will not have a second chance, I cannot make a mistake, I must move to the next level. If you make yourself, you don’t have room for mistakes. I don’t believe I’ll get a second chance. I have to do this, one time good, and go forward. If I do good, good for me, if I do bad, I will pay for it. I have to do all good. Good, good!

Time is limited and precious, there is no tomorrow, it’s right now! Whatever you want out of life, all this energy, is already here. You just have to make the choice, if you want it, you can have it. The choice is yours, don’t blame other people.

DH: Do you have children Hassan?

No I am single, I’ve always been single, my mission is pretty hard, I have to concentrate on what I’m doing.

DH: How many people do you support in Iran?

Eight or nine people, for many years. My career was delayed, I should have done this a long time ago, but I made my family happy. I lost my Dad in 1990 and the whole family was on my head. The responsibility came to me and that’s why all my plans were delayed. But, it’s never too late. Anytime you go to the ocean, you can catch your first fish.

DH: I wish you well in achieving your goals and maintaining your health.

Thank you very much. It wasn’t easy, sometimes it was hard, but life has been worth all the sacrifice.

Hassan Chitsaz
Nickname: “The Iranian Assassin”
Division: Heavyweight
Professional Record: 10-0, 10 KO’s

Date Opponent W-L-D Location Result

1994-03-17 Ron McGowan 3-8-0 Biloxi, USA W TKO 2
1994-03-27 Don Goodwin 0-1-0 Tulsa, USA W KO 1
1994-04-16 Andrew Wade 0-0-0 Moore, USA W TKO 1

2008-02-22 Gabriel Godinez 0-0-0 Hermosillo, Mexico W KO 1
2008-03-09 Luis Enrique Ochoa 0-0-0 Ensenada, Mexico W KO 1
2008-05-30 David Ramos 0-0-0 Los Mochis, Mexico W TKO 2
2008-10-18 Luis Orrantia 0-18-0 Guamuchil, Mexico W KO 1
2008-10-25 Frank Morales 0-2-0 Juan Jose Rios, Mexico W KO 1
WBA Fedecaribe Heavyweight Title
2008-12-12 Antonio Aguilera 0-0-0 Los Mochis, Mexico W KO 1
2008-12-20 Mario Maciel 11-12-0 Guamuchil, Mexico W KO 1
vacant WBA NABA Mexico Heavyweight Title

The King of Iran . . .

I sincerely hope they match Hassan with Evander Holyfield. Then at this years WBHOF banquet, when I do the "ten count" for deceased prizefighters, I can mention his name in the same breath with "real" boxers. That's the only way I ever could.

Last summer, he told me that he had a match set for November with Vlad Klitschko in Spain. I work in the film industry, so I'm very familiar with bullshit. All I could do was pull him aside and ask, "Who do you think your talking too?", then I turned around and walked away. I grew up in the world of professional boxing from the mid-60's, and I've been involved with the media professionally for more than three decades.

He should not overmatch himself in his choice people to tell his crap too. He picks sure things in the ring, and he should avoid trying to lay a line on somebody like me. I take it as an insult. I'm not like a lot of ex-fighters. I'm not always nice to people who try to jerk me off. I'm six years older than Hassan and 75 lbs. lighter, and would gladly fight him today for a ham sandwich (you might think I'm joking, I'm not!). Dan Hanley would bust him up and make him quit, Randy would leave him for dead with his hook, Roger would flatten him with a nasty look, and if he ever saw Brian facing him from across the ring, he'd crap his oversized boxing trunks. We won't even consider what would happen if he faced a Baltazar.

As I mentioned, when you work in the film world, you hear a lot of crap. To guys like Hassan I say, "Go sell your B.S. somewhere else. We're all stocked up here."

-Rick

One thing for sure, I was not wild about the way this Hassan guy carries himself.
He acts like some kind of tough guy.
I dont like that shit.There are a zillion guys like that here in Chicago. Wannabe wise guy types.Thats the way this guy acts.
Jack Dempsey said,"A fighter can always afford to be a gentleman".
And the real fighters almost always are.

[Expug]

Any of you guys remember 70s Heavyweight Bobby Halpern?
He was a 40 plus guy who was a TOUGH son of a gun.
His story is very interesting.
Hes a Bronx legend.

[kikibalt]

Any of you guys remember 70s Heavyweight Bobby Halpern?
He was a 40 plus guy who was a TOUGH son of a gun.
His story is very interesting.
Hes a Bronx legend.

I enjoyed writing this one because it brought back some great NYC memories.

Cheers and I hope you enjoy it as well.

Ted


http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=18863&more=1

[dagosd2000]

Roger,

It was a great afternoon at your home Sunday. It seemed like we talked for hours and hours with no break. We had so many stories to share. Rog has so many pictures of Michoan that brought back so many memories of when I visited there in the 60's and when I fought Jose Garcia in Jiquilpan on Feb. 4, of that year.
Besides looking at so many old pictures of Mexico which we loved looking at, Roger has dozens and dozens of portraits of boxers and other people that he has painted in his unique style. I especially like the one of Pancho Villa. Such a natural talent.

Maria cooked such a delicious meal for us--Carne Asada, mouth watering breaded shrimp, rice. beans and vegetables, flour and corn tortillas. It makes me hungry just writing about it. After dinner we had coffee and real Mescal, which is 150% tequilla. Barbara nearly choked on it. I think that's when Roger took the picture of her.

Thank you so much, Roger and Maria for inviting us into you home. We are looking forward to our next get-to-gether.

El Gato

Thank you. It was like we knew each other all our lives. It was our pleasure. Maybe when there's a fight coming up? Roger

[dagosd2000]

Well, I'm on the way to the hospital to have the damage of 12 years of boxing removed from my nose. It will still look flattened, but I should be able to breath nicely for the first time in more than thirty years.

-Rick

Good Luck with the surgery. Don't pester the nurses

[bennie]

Any of you guys remember 70s Heavyweight Bobby Halpern?
He was a 40 plus guy who was a TOUGH son of a gun.
His story is very interesting.
Hes a Bronx legend.

Yes, he turned pro as a young man, did a LONG stint in jail, finally got out (as an old man), carried on fighting and was actually performing quite well and earning plenty of copy in the local press when he ran into Guy "Rocky" Casale.
Bobby Halpern epitomises the phrase "tough white heavyweight".

[bennie]

Well, I'm on the way to the hospital to have the damage of 12 years of boxing removed from my nose. It will still look flattened, but I should be able to breath nicely for the first time in more than thirty years.

-Rick

Good Luck with the surgery. Don't pester the nurses

I second that. Rick is NEVER off duty, if you get my meaning.

[dagosd2000]

Rick, look at this


Just a Number: 51 Year Old Heavyweight Hassan Chitsaz Targets Evander Holyfield and the Heavyweight Title
Interview by Dan Hernandez-February 23, 2009

“I decided that age was just a number, all it takes is hard work and you can get what you want in life.”--Hassan Chitsaz

As the reigning elder statesman of active heavyweight fighters, Hassan E. Chitsaz is on a mission to accomplish his boxing dream and becoming the first man of Iranian decent to become a professional heavyweight champion of the world. Knowing the odds against his success, including obtaining the necessary license to fight in the United States and the inability to obtain insurance policies should his plans go awry, “The Iranian Assassin” is moving on undeterred by these drawbacks and host of detractors.

Hassan, 51, fought under the management of his friend, former boxing great, Ken Norton, in 1994, when he was a young man of only 37 years of age, retiring, and making his comeback in 2008. He is self-managed and holds an overall ring record of 10-0, 10 KO’s, seven of those victories, sanctioned bouts held in Mexico, coming in 2008. All ten bouts ended in resounding knockouts for the undefeated Chitsaz and encompassed only 12 rounds of fighting. He told me that he suffered a broken rib in his last bout, regrouped, and knocked the much younger man flat within the very first stanza. He presently holds the WBA Fedecaribe Heavyweight Title and the NABA Heavyweight Championship, and has a team of advisors attempting to line up a bout with boxing legend and former multi-belt heavyweight title-holder, Evander Holyfield or anyone with solid credentials. The Assassin is ready!

Standing at 5’11 and weighing 228 pounds, Hassan claims to be in the best shape and condition of his life. Having thirty years of experience in security, protecting politicians, and entertainers, such as Hall of Fame singer, Stevie Wonder, he has helped support his family in Iran and says his future is bright. He is doing this for him and anyone that thinks age means they can no longer accomplish demanding goals. If energy and confidence have a valid place in our reasoning, Hassan has a sluggers chance to make a difference. It was thoroughly enjoyable to sit down with this young man and discuss his present and future plans.

DH: When did you get into boxing originally?

In Iran, I was an amateur fighter.

DH: How old were you at that time?

15 years old.

DH: Did you ever turn pro when you were younger?

No, Iran does not have professional boxing. I fought there for three years and came to America when I was 19 years old.

DH: Did you continue boxing when you came to America?

I did Martial Arts, then in 1990, I turned pro in California…I was approved with the Athletic Commission and turned pro. I fought for a few years, went to a boxing camp in Texas. At that time, I was managed by Ken Norton, the former Heavyweight Champ. I had three fights, three knockouts and after that, I came back to California to renew my license. Some personal stuff happened and I didn’t go back to boxing. I stayed here and went back to school, graduated from Irvine Valley College in Irvine, California. After that, I was doing my bodyguard work. I did that for 30 years.

DH: Can you name some of your clients?

Some of them I can, some I cannot. There were many singers like Stevie Wonder and diplomats, dignitaries, and politicians. I worked special functions, like award shows and such.

DH: You did that for thirty years?

I am still doing that. Then I joined the World Hall of Fame Boxing two years ago and then I was an honorary member, then they selected me to the Board of Directors, then Sergeant of Arms, then last year they nominated me as the Ambassador to the World Hall of Fame Boxing.

DH: I am confused, from security work you simply decided to join the HOF? Why did you make that transition?

I loved to be in the boxing business…I wanted to go back to fighting again.

DH: Have you always loved boxing?

Yes, I love boxing. I have always supported a lot of fighters. That was my bliss, always fighting.

DH: Are you still in contact with Ken Norton?

Yes, he is my best good friend.

DH: I know he had a stroke, how is he doing now?

He’s fine, he had another stroke recently, but he came back right now.

DH: I’m glad to hear he is recovering. When did you start fighting professionally again?

Just last year. I decided that age was just a number, all it takes is hard work and you can get what you want in life. You know you go up and down in life…I had to support my family back home in Iran, so I didn’t have chances. Since I joined the HOF, I just decided to go back to boxing. I’ve always been training, always and last year I lost 50 pounds, had 10 fights, 10 quick knockouts. I got two championships, on October 5th, 2008, I had WBA Championship and on December 20, 2008, I fought again and won the NABA Title. So I motivate myself and I’m going to keep going for more and more and more coming.

DH: So, are you licensed to box in the US now?

No, but I’m going to get it. I am licensed in Mexico, but I’m going to fight in the United States…I’m going to be a champion.

DH: What is your fighting weight?

Right now, I am at 228. I was 276 last year and I lost 50 pounds. I never felt stronger than I do right now. I’ve never been stronger ever.

DH: And your goal is to become a world champion?

I’m going to get it. You believe it, you achieve it. And I want to help everybody, all these kids…I want to be a role model for all of them. People all over the world, I mean age is a number, if you want it, you can do it. I want to open a charity and help everyone. If anyone has the opportunity, but they don’t have the money, I’m fighting for those people. I’m a people’s fighter.

DH: Are the paychecks getting better as you acquire these championships?

Yes. Everybody I fight, nobody is my age…most people I fight are 26 or 27 and all of them were first round knockouts.

DH: Have you fought any rated fighters?

Mario Maciel, 11-12-0, was a good fighter. He worked me out.

DH: How old are you right now?

I am 51 and he was 27.

DH: You must be in great condition, some guys at 51 have trouble crossing the street.

You have to be always in shape, you have to believe in yourself, you have to train. You have to always be in training, you have to always feel like you’re going to fight the next day. You have to be in that kind of shape.

DH: You mentioned working on a fight with Evander Holyfield, when is that going to be?

That’s my goal, to fight Evander. They are working on it.

DH: Who is your manager?

I have a few people but I don’t want to call their names because I’m hoping to sign with them. They are working on some big fights for me. I am presently self-managed. Maybe I can get Ken Norton to come back to help me.

DH: I understand that you have aspirations of becoming an actor, is that correct?

I want to be in the movie business also.

DH: What would you like to do in the movies?

I would like to do movies that make common sense…I could be a justice man. Bringing justice to the people, that’s what I’d like to do.

DH: How do you feel about the new President of the United States?

Mr. Obama, I love Mr. Obama. In fact, I want to change my name to Obama, because I like him very much. He’s outgoing, however he feels he says, and he’s a straight shooter, that’s what I like. That’s how I am, If I like, I like. If I don’t like, I don’t like.

That has always been my principle, you have to be an outgoing person, and you have to be in charge. You must always be in charge, I’m the leader, and I’m a commander. I have always felt that way, I’m a self-made man.

When you are a self-made person, you believe in yourself and someone like me, we never had a chance and now it’s a second chance. If I make a mistake, I will not have a second chance, I cannot make a mistake, I must move to the next level. If you make yourself, you don’t have room for mistakes. I don’t believe I’ll get a second chance. I have to do this, one time good, and go forward. If I do good, good for me, if I do bad, I will pay for it. I have to do all good. Good, good!

Time is limited and precious, there is no tomorrow, it’s right now! Whatever you want out of life, all this energy, is already here. You just have to make the choice, if you want it, you can have it. The choice is yours, don’t blame other people.

DH: Do you have children Hassan?

No I am single, I’ve always been single, my mission is pretty hard, I have to concentrate on what I’m doing.

DH: How many people do you support in Iran?

Eight or nine people, for many years. My career was delayed, I should have done this a long time ago, but I made my family happy. I lost my Dad in 1990 and the whole family was on my head. The responsibility came to me and that’s why all my plans were delayed. But, it’s never too late. Anytime you go to the ocean, you can catch your first fish.

DH: I wish you well in achieving your goals and maintaining your health.

Thank you very much. It wasn’t easy, sometimes it was hard, but life has been worth all the sacrifice.

Hassan Chitsaz
Nickname: “The Iranian Assassin”
Division: Heavyweight
Professional Record: 10-0, 10 KO’s

Date Opponent W-L-D Location Result

1994-03-17 Ron McGowan 3-8-0 Biloxi, USA W TKO 2
1994-03-27 Don Goodwin 0-1-0 Tulsa, USA W KO 1
1994-04-16 Andrew Wade 0-0-0 Moore, USA W TKO 1

2008-02-22 Gabriel Godinez 0-0-0 Hermosillo, Mexico W KO 1
2008-03-09 Luis Enrique Ochoa 0-0-0 Ensenada, Mexico W KO 1
2008-05-30 David Ramos 0-0-0 Los Mochis, Mexico W TKO 2
2008-10-18 Luis Orrantia 0-18-0 Guamuchil, Mexico W KO 1
2008-10-25 Frank Morales 0-2-0 Juan Jose Rios, Mexico W KO 1
WBA Fedecaribe Heavyweight Title
2008-12-12 Antonio Aguilera 0-0-0 Los Mochis, Mexico W KO 1
2008-12-20 Mario Maciel 11-12-0 Guamuchil, Mexico W KO 1
vacant WBA NABA Mexico Heavyweight Title

The King of Iran . . .

I sincerely hope they match Hassan with Evander Holyfield. Then at this years WBHOF banquet, when I do the "ten count" for deceased prizefighters, I can mention his name in the same breath with "real" boxers. That's the only way I ever could.

Last summer, he told me that he had a match set for November with Vlad Klitschko in Spain. I work in the film industry, so I'm very familiar with bullshit. All I could do was pull him aside and ask, "Who do you think your talking too?", then I turned around and walked away. I grew up in the world of professional boxing from the mid-60's, and I've been involved with the media professionally for more than three decades.

He should not overmatch himself in his choice people to tell his crap too. He picks sure things in the ring, and he should avoid trying to lay a line on somebody like me. I take it as an insult. I'm not like a lot of ex-fighters. I'm not always nice to people who try to jerk me off. I'm six years older than Hassan and 75 lbs. lighter, and would gladly fight him today for a ham sandwich (you might think I'm joking, I'm not!). Dan Hanley would bust him up and make him quit, Randy would leave him for dead with his hook, Roger would flatten him with a nasty look, and if he ever saw Brian facing him from across the ring, he'd crap his oversized boxing trunks. We won't even consider what would happen if he faced a Baltazar.

As I mentioned, when you work in the film world, you hear a lot of crap. To guys like Hassan I say, "Go sell your B.S. somewhere else. We're all stocked up here."

-Rick

One thing for sure, I was not wild about the way this Hassan guy carries himself.
He acts like some kind of tough guy.
I dont like that shit.There are a zillion guys like that here in Chicago. Wannabe wise guy types.Thats the way this guy acts.
Jack Dempsey said,"A fighter can always afford to be a gentleman".
And the real fighters almost always are.

You're right about that Brian. The way that guy talked that night was like he kicked everybody in the worlds ass. I know what you mean about those types of wanna be's in cities like Chicago and New York. They act like something in a bad Mafia movie.

Talking to Gato the other night,you'd never known he was one the best fighters in the world.Never talked about how tough he was. He'd already proved it.

[bennie]

Any of you guys remember 70s Heavyweight Bobby Halpern?
He was a 40 plus guy who was a TOUGH son of a gun.
His story is very interesting.
Hes a Bronx legend.

I enjoyed writing this one because it brought back some great NYC memories.

Cheers and I hope you enjoy it as well.

Ted


http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=18863&more=1

I missed this post, somehow. Great article, Ted.

[Expug]

Any of you guys remember 70s Heavyweight Bobby Halpern?
He was a 40 plus guy who was a TOUGH son of a gun.
His story is very interesting.
Hes a Bronx legend.

I enjoyed writing this one because it brought back some great NYC memories.

Cheers and I hope you enjoy it as well.

Ted


http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=18863&more=1

I missed this post, somehow. Great article, Ted.

Thanks for the article. Great stuff.

[bennie]

John Mugabi, by the way, is quite famous in this country, where he turned pro and fought many times, for an uppercut he nails Hagler with at one stage in their fight. It was the kind of punch that proves Hagler had one of the greatest chins EVER.
Leonard, it is said, made up his mind to take on Hagler during the course of the Mugabi fight.

[Expug]

Rog,when I posted about Hassan and wannabe wise guys, I knew that you would know what I was talking about.
Between the two of us if we could have a nickel for every one of these that we have seen in our lives, we would be rich my friend I'm sure.

[Randyman]

Rick, look at this


Just a Number: 51 Year Old Heavyweight Hassan Chitsaz Targets Evander Holyfield and the Heavyweight Title
Interview by Dan Hernandez-February 23, 2009

“I decided that age was just a number, all it takes is hard work and you can get what you want in life.”--Hassan Chitsaz

As the reigning elder statesman of active heavyweight fighters, Hassan E. Chitsaz is on a mission to accomplish his boxing dream and becoming the first man of Iranian decent to become a professional heavyweight champion of the world. Knowing the odds against his success, including obtaining the necessary license to fight in the United States and the inability to obtain insurance policies should his plans go awry, “The Iranian Assassin” is moving on undeterred by these drawbacks and host of detractors.

Hassan, 51, fought under the management of his friend, former boxing great, Ken Norton, in 1994, when he was a young man of only 37 years of age, retiring, and making his comeback in 2008. He is self-managed and holds an overall ring record of 10-0, 10 KO’s, seven of those victories, sanctioned bouts held in Mexico, coming in 2008. All ten bouts ended in resounding knockouts for the undefeated Chitsaz and encompassed only 12 rounds of fighting. He told me that he suffered a broken rib in his last bout, regrouped, and knocked the much younger man flat within the very first stanza. He presently holds the WBA Fedecaribe Heavyweight Title and the NABA Heavyweight Championship, and has a team of advisors attempting to line up a bout with boxing legend and former multi-belt heavyweight title-holder, Evander Holyfield or anyone with solid credentials. The Assassin is ready!

Standing at 5’11 and weighing 228 pounds, Hassan claims to be in the best shape and condition of his life. Having thirty years of experience in security, protecting politicians, and entertainers, such as Hall of Fame singer, Stevie Wonder, he has helped support his family in Iran and says his future is bright. He is doing this for him and anyone that thinks age means they can no longer accomplish demanding goals. If energy and confidence have a valid place in our reasoning, Hassan has a sluggers chance to make a difference. It was thoroughly enjoyable to sit down with this young man and discuss his present and future plans.

DH: When did you get into boxing originally?

In Iran, I was an amateur fighter.

DH: How old were you at that time?

15 years old.

DH: Did you ever turn pro when you were younger?

No, Iran does not have professional boxing. I fought there for three years and came to America when I was 19 years old.

DH: Did you continue boxing when you came to America?

I did Martial Arts, then in 1990, I turned pro in California…I was approved with the Athletic Commission and turned pro. I fought for a few years, went to a boxing camp in Texas. At that time, I was managed by Ken Norton, the former Heavyweight Champ. I had three fights, three knockouts and after that, I came back to California to renew my license. Some personal stuff happened and I didn’t go back to boxing. I stayed here and went back to school, graduated from Irvine Valley College in Irvine, California. After that, I was doing my bodyguard work. I did that for 30 years.

DH: Can you name some of your clients?

Some of them I can, some I cannot. There were many singers like Stevie Wonder and diplomats, dignitaries, and politicians. I worked special functions, like award shows and such.

DH: You did that for thirty years?

I am still doing that. Then I joined the World Hall of Fame Boxing two years ago and then I was an honorary member, then they selected me to the Board of Directors, then Sergeant of Arms, then last year they nominated me as the Ambassador to the World Hall of Fame Boxing.

DH: I am confused, from security work you simply decided to join the HOF? Why did you make that transition?

I loved to be in the boxing business…I wanted to go back to fighting again.

DH: Have you always loved boxing?

Yes, I love boxing. I have always supported a lot of fighters. That was my bliss, always fighting.

DH: Are you still in contact with Ken Norton?

Yes, he is my best good friend.

DH: I know he had a stroke, how is he doing now?

He’s fine, he had another stroke recently, but he came back right now.

DH: I’m glad to hear he is recovering. When did you start fighting professionally again?

Just last year. I decided that age was just a number, all it takes is hard work and you can get what you want in life. You know you go up and down in life…I had to support my family back home in Iran, so I didn’t have chances. Since I joined the HOF, I just decided to go back to boxing. I’ve always been training, always and last year I lost 50 pounds, had 10 fights, 10 quick knockouts. I got two championships, on October 5th, 2008, I had WBA Championship and on December 20, 2008, I fought again and won the NABA Title. So I motivate myself and I’m going to keep going for more and more and more coming.

DH: So, are you licensed to box in the US now?

No, but I’m going to get it. I am licensed in Mexico, but I’m going to fight in the United States…I’m going to be a champion.

DH: What is your fighting weight?

Right now, I am at 228. I was 276 last year and I lost 50 pounds. I never felt stronger than I do right now. I’ve never been stronger ever.

DH: And your goal is to become a world champion?

I’m going to get it. You believe it, you achieve it. And I want to help everybody, all these kids…I want to be a role model for all of them. People all over the world, I mean age is a number, if you want it, you can do it. I want to open a charity and help everyone. If anyone has the opportunity, but they don’t have the money, I’m fighting for those people. I’m a people’s fighter.

DH: Are the paychecks getting better as you acquire these championships?

Yes. Everybody I fight, nobody is my age…most people I fight are 26 or 27 and all of them were first round knockouts.

DH: Have you fought any rated fighters?

Mario Maciel, 11-12-0, was a good fighter. He worked me out.

DH: How old are you right now?

I am 51 and he was 27.

DH: You must be in great condition, some guys at 51 have trouble crossing the street.

You have to be always in shape, you have to believe in yourself, you have to train. You have to always be in training, you have to always feel like you’re going to fight the next day. You have to be in that kind of shape.

DH: You mentioned working on a fight with Evander Holyfield, when is that going to be?

That’s my goal, to fight Evander. They are working on it.

DH: Who is your manager?

I have a few people but I don’t want to call their names because I’m hoping to sign with them. They are working on some big fights for me. I am presently self-managed. Maybe I can get Ken Norton to come back to help me.

DH: I understand that you have aspirations of becoming an actor, is that correct?

I want to be in the movie business also.

DH: What would you like to do in the movies?

I would like to do movies that make common sense…I could be a justice man. Bringing justice to the people, that’s what I’d like to do.

DH: How do you feel about the new President of the United States?

Mr. Obama, I love Mr. Obama. In fact, I want to change my name to Obama, because I like him very much. He’s outgoing, however he feels he says, and he’s a straight shooter, that’s what I like. That’s how I am, If I like, I like. If I don’t like, I don’t like.

That has always been my principle, you have to be an outgoing person, and you have to be in charge. You must always be in charge, I’m the leader, and I’m a commander. I have always felt that way, I’m a self-made man.

When you are a self-made person, you believe in yourself and someone like me, we never had a chance and now it’s a second chance. If I make a mistake, I will not have a second chance, I cannot make a mistake, I must move to the next level. If you make yourself, you don’t have room for mistakes. I don’t believe I’ll get a second chance. I have to do this, one time good, and go forward. If I do good, good for me, if I do bad, I will pay for it. I have to do all good. Good, good!

Time is limited and precious, there is no tomorrow, it’s right now! Whatever you want out of life, all this energy, is already here. You just have to make the choice, if you want it, you can have it. The choice is yours, don’t blame other people.

DH: Do you have children Hassan?

No I am single, I’ve always been single, my mission is pretty hard, I have to concentrate on what I’m doing.

DH: How many people do you support in Iran?

Eight or nine people, for many years. My career was delayed, I should have done this a long time ago, but I made my family happy. I lost my Dad in 1990 and the whole family was on my head. The responsibility came to me and that’s why all my plans were delayed. But, it’s never too late. Anytime you go to the ocean, you can catch your first fish.

DH: I wish you well in achieving your goals and maintaining your health.

Thank you very much. It wasn’t easy, sometimes it was hard, but life has been worth all the sacrifice.

Hassan Chitsaz
Nickname: “The Iranian Assassin”
Division: Heavyweight
Professional Record: 10-0, 10 KO’s

Date Opponent W-L-D Location Result

1994-03-17 Ron McGowan 3-8-0 Biloxi, USA W TKO 2
1994-03-27 Don Goodwin 0-1-0 Tulsa, USA W KO 1
1994-04-16 Andrew Wade 0-0-0 Moore, USA W TKO 1

2008-02-22 Gabriel Godinez 0-0-0 Hermosillo, Mexico W KO 1
2008-03-09 Luis Enrique Ochoa 0-0-0 Ensenada, Mexico W KO 1
2008-05-30 David Ramos 0-0-0 Los Mochis, Mexico W TKO 2
2008-10-18 Luis Orrantia 0-18-0 Guamuchil, Mexico W KO 1
2008-10-25 Frank Morales 0-2-0 Juan Jose Rios, Mexico W KO 1
WBA Fedecaribe Heavyweight Title
2008-12-12 Antonio Aguilera 0-0-0 Los Mochis, Mexico W KO 1
2008-12-20 Mario Maciel 11-12-0 Guamuchil, Mexico W KO 1
vacant WBA NABA Mexico Heavyweight Title

The King of Iran . . .

I sincerely hope they match Hassan with Evander Holyfield. Then at this years WBHOF banquet, when I do the "ten count" for deceased prizefighters, I can mention his name in the same breath with "real" boxers. That's the only way I ever could.

Last summer, he told me that he had a match set for November with Vlad Klitschko in Spain. I work in the film industry, so I'm very familiar with bullshit. All I could do was pull him aside and ask, "Who do you think your talking too?", then I turned around and walked away. I grew up in the world of professional boxing from the mid-60's, and I've been involved with the media professionally for more than three decades.

He should not overmatch himself in his choice people to tell his crap too. He picks sure things in the ring, and he should avoid trying to lay a line on somebody like me. I take it as an insult. I'm not like a lot of ex-fighters. I'm not always nice to people who try to jerk me off. I'm six years older than Hassan and 75 lbs. lighter, and would gladly fight him today for a ham sandwich (you might think I'm joking, I'm not!). Dan Hanley would bust him up and make him quit, Randy would leave him for dead with his hook, Roger would flatten him with a nasty look, and if he ever saw Brian facing him from across the ring, he'd crap his oversized boxing trunks. We won't even consider what would happen if he faced a Baltazar.

As I mentioned, when you work in the film world, you hear a lot of crap. To guys like Hassan I say, "Go sell your B.S. somewhere else. We're all stocked up here."

-Rick

One thing for sure, I was not wild about the way this Hassan guy carries himself.
He acts like some kind of tough guy.
I dont like that shit.There are a zillion guys like that here in Chicago. Wannabe wise guy types.Thats the way this guy acts.
Jack Dempsey said,"A fighter can always afford to be a gentleman".
And the real fighters almost always are.

Brian, after meeting you and spending some time with you, both Jeri and I thought you were the epitome of a gentleman. There is no doubt in our minds that you could have mopped up the floor with anyone there that night. Just an honest assessment.

Randy

[Randyman]

Well, I'm on the way to the hospital to have the damage of 12 years of boxing removed from my nose. It will still look flattened, but I should be able to breath nicely for the first time in more than thirty years.

-Rick

Good luck with the surgery Rick.

[Expug]

Thank You Randy.
I look forward to you and Jeri one day meeting my wife Mary also.
She would really be impressed with the two of you .

[kikibalt]

Can Ricky Hatton Beat Manny Pacquiao?
By Daniel Poland
RSR

December 8th, 2007, at the MGM Grand Garden of Las Vegas, Nevada: It was the biggest night of Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton’s career.

As he tried to fulfill his dream of becoming boxing’s Pound for Pound champion, Hatton the reigning IBO and Ring Magazine Junior Welterweight Champion stepped up to welterweight to challenge the best fighter in the world, 5-Weight World Champion, “Pretty Boy” Floyd Mayweather, JR.

With Mayweather’s WBC Welterweight Title on the line, Hatton had the chance to become a two-time welterweight champion. In May 2006, he decisioned WBA Champion Luis Collazo, a fight in which Hatton struggled throughout and was nearly stopped in the final round.

With both Hatton and Mayweather undefeated coming into the fight, the fight was billed as “Undefeated.” To quote Michael Buffer “Somebody’s ‘0’ has got to go!”

After 10 frustrating rounds with Hatton unable to make any sort of impact on Mayweather JR., and Floyd putting on a boxing clinic, the end was inevitable as Hatton walked straight into a check hook and found himself on the floor for only the second time in his career. Showing his heart and determination, Hatton rose to his feet only to be put down again only moments later and prompting referee Joe Cortez to stop the fight.

Hatton’s dreams of becoming boxing’s best had been shattered and the best option was to move back to his more natural weight of 140 pounds to rebuild his career.
Hatton’s undefeated record might have gone, but he is still undefeated as a Junior Welterweight.

The year 2008 for Hatton began with his homecoming fight against Juan Lazcano, a fight in which Hatton controlled from the opening bell but did have some shaky moments on his way to victory. In the fall of 2008, there were massive changes in the Hatton camp as he and long time trainer Billy Graham parted ways, which seen the services of trainer Floyd Mayweather, SR., brought in. Mayweather, SR., is the father of the only man to have ever beaten Hatton.

Hatton had now signed to fight former IBF Junior Welterweight Champion and the so called number two of the division “The Magic Man” Paul Malignaggi.

Mayweather, SR., had promised a different Hatton in this fight, and it was different Hatton we saw. He out jabbed the jabber and showed controlled aggression which he has never shown before. Hatton bullied Malignaggi around the ring for 11 rounds before Malignaggi’s trainer Buddy McGirt stepped into the ring to wave off the fight.

Now the stage is set for Hatton once again to attempt to become boxing’s Pound for Pound King when he will meet the Filipino sensation and 5-Weight World Champion, Manny Pacquiao at the MGM Grand Garden, Las Vegas, Nevada on May 2nd in the most anticipated fight of the year.

There hasn’t really been much debate on who will come out victorious in this fight, as most boxing observers see an easy win for Pacquiao, who on December 6th gave us the finest performance of his career, moving up two weight divisions to annihilate 10-Time
World Champion “The Golden Boy” Oscar De La Hoya. Pacquiao gave him a horrible beating for eight rounds, making him retire on his stool before the ninth.

Pacquiao is rightfully so Pound for Pound champion since the retirement of Floyd Mayweather, JR. He began his career as a flyweight and has won titles all the way up to lightweight, beating some of boxing’s best such as former three weight world champions and Mexican Legends Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera. He has also beaten one of today’s Pound for Pound contenders three weight world champion Juan Manuel Marquez.

People are focusing too much on the strengths of Pacquiao and the weaknesses of Hatton. They say that Hatton is a “one-dimensional slugger” with no hand speed or footwork and he will not be able to handle the hand speed of Pacquiao or his elusiveness and power.

I believe that people are giving Pacquiao too much credit for his victory over De La Hoya. Yes, it was an outstanding performance and he was fighting a much bigger man in De La Hoya but people must understand that De La Hoya had not fought at welterweight since March 2001, and he clearly over trained to make the weight and was completely spent on fight night and had nothing to offer.

When Pacquiao goes into the ring against Hatton he will be fighting a stronger live opponent who is going to fire back punches.

Hatton may not have the skills that Pacquiao possesses, but if he can bully him to the ropes and focus mainly on the body and slow him down, it will be more of competitive fight then what many people believe.

Remember Hatton is unbeaten at junior welterweight and although his Ring Magazine title is on the line, he will see himself as the challenger as he seeks to fulfill his dream of becoming Pound for Pound champion. It is a tough task for Hatton but fans shouldn’t be surprised if he can pull off the upset.

Pacquiao might be biting of more than he can chew with this fight.

So can Ricky Hatton overcome Manny Pacquiao?

Yes he can!

[kikibalt]

One can't smell and the other can't see....what to do?....

Good luck to Rog and Rick on their respective surgerys....

[kikibalt]

Former fighter hosts show this weekend

Former super middleweight fighter Frank Aleman has been involved in both amateur and pro boxing for over 21 years. This Saturday, the founder of “Aleman Boxing Fresno” will be hosting an amateur show featuring the 2009 National Silver Gloves Champion Gary Salazar.

Aleman enjoys working with the young boxers as the owner and trainer at his non-profit gym in Fresno, California. His main goal is to help underprivileged and at-risk youth stay out of trouble by staying in the gym. Boasting over 2200 square feet, his new gym is a haven for the area’s children and is also open for adult fitness memberships as well.

He does not charge any gym fees to any registered amateur boxer between 8-19 years old as long as they train five days a week and compete in shows and tournaments. ”It’s something that’s was a benefit to me when I was a kid, so I wanted to offer this to other kids to help them,” Aleman explains.

The former amateur and pro fighter opened his state-of-the art gym just a year ago and also enjoys hosting shows in the Central California community. I asked him what he’s looking forward to most about his upcoming show this weekend and he replied, ”Getting a lot of my kids their first fights. It’s going to be great.”

The trainer lists Muhammad Ali, Tommy Hearns, Carl “The Truth” Williams, Oscar De La Hoya, Shane Mosley, Rafael Marquez and Juan Manuel Marquez as his past and current favorite fighters.

And one other favorite fighter of his, Bobby “Schoolboy” Chacon, will be making the trek from Los Angeles up to Fresno with L.A. cornerman Gil “Candyman” Nieves where the two will be making a special guest appearance at Aleman’s show.

So if you are in the Fresno area this Saturday, stop by and meet Frank Aleman and check out all the talented young boxers in his stable of future champs!

[Rick Farris]

Best of luck Rick.
You'll be fine .Get back to us ASAP.
Let us know it went well.
Brian

Thank you, Brian. And thanks to all of you for the kind words. I'm already out of the hospital. Pretty simple. A lot less trauma than the nose surgery performed by Centavito Hernandez, Danny Lopez and a couple of others. I'll be bit uncomfortable for a day or two, and then I'll have the pleasure of experiencing a full dose Los Angeles vintage air pollution. :)

Roger's up next. Eye surgery on friday. Much more involved and I wish him the best.

[Rick Farris]

Any of you guys remember 70s Heavyweight Bobby Halpern?
He was a 40 plus guy who was a TOUGH son of a gun.
His story is very interesting.
Hes a Bronx legend.

I remember the name Brian, and pics of him in boxing mags. I never had a chance to see him in action.

-Rick